Relieving Chemical Addictions - with dietary supplements

It is not uncommon for those who remain totally chemically free to simply substitute their chosen substance with excessive use of another addictive substance, such as sugar, caffeine, or nicotine.

The term addiction encompasses almost all imbalance and self-destructive behavior. Chemical and codependency can create an illusory sense of well-being, but in the end, it severely damages physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

There are underlying metabolic malfunctions common to almost all forms of addictions. Sugar is the foremost "addictive, yet legal" substance used today. Several other drugs such as amphetamines, psychedelics, cocaine, caffeine, and nicotine temporarily increase the release of sugar into the bloodstream; this creates a "high" through a metabolic process similar to that involving sugar and alcohol. These drugs also duplicate the mood-inducing effect of the body's endorphins, chemicals which transmit messages to the brain that help to relax the nervous system or make it "smile."

There are many degrees of addictions. Some people are mildly addicted to one or two cups of coffee or a few teaspoons of sugar. Others consume two to three quarts of caffeine drinks with more significant amounts of sugar. At the other end of the spectrum are addicts drinking pints of alcohol daily, shooting heroin and doing large amounts of various drugs.

Research and studies show that individuals with chemical or co-dependency may very likely be suffering from an assortment of one or more metabolic disorders such a hypoglycemia, hypoadrenia, hypothyrodism, vitamin B deficiency, mineral deficiency, liver malfunction, and depression. Serious maladaptive patterns, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, hypoglycemia, and candida albicans are common among drug addicts and alcoholics. Continual nutritional support is instrumental in gaining real and lasting recovery. It is not uncommon for those who remain totally chemically free to simply substitute their chosen substance with excessive use of another addictive substance, such as sugar, caffeine, or nicotine. This behavior is often indicative of some metabolic disorder that the individual is trying to self-correct.

It is a good idea when beginning a nutritional program to include a clean diet: lean protein, complex carbohydrates, plenty of vegetables and fruits, low fat, high fiber and little or no refined sugars. When selecting nutrients, you may want to begin with a particular nutrient or formula, and use it for a week, noticing its effect. Then, select a second nutrient and note its effect. An overall increase in energy or a heightened sense of well-being indicates that the nutrients are probably helping.

Detoxify to Rebuild

Here are some of the nutrients that address common problems from which many recovering people suffer:

Nutrients Associated with Detoxifying the Liver and Digestive Tract

* Milk Thistle

It is effective in treating cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, and alcohol induced fatty liver. It protects the liver cells from damage by environmental and internal toxins.

* Goldenseal

A superior liver and blood detoxifier. A natural antibiotic, it is known to help reverse liver damage and effectively treat a variety of infections.

* Dandelion

Excellent liver and detoxifier and mild diurectic, dandelion increases the flow of bile and encourages both the transformation and transportation of nutrients.

* Burdock Root

A highly nutritional, hormone balancing herb and a strong liver purifier.

* Red clover

Flushes toxins out of the bloodstream.

* Lecithin

Breaks down fatty tissue in the liver.

* Nettles

Helps enzyme activity in the liver and removes uric acid.

* Cat's Claw

Serves as a general body detoxifier.

Changing Your Energy

These nutrients are associated with relaxing and strengthening the nervous system.

Calcium

This is one of the most important nutrients. Caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and other drugs cause the body to eliminate calcium. Depressed calcium and magnesium levels are often the root of irritability, muscle spasms, and various forms of pain. A standard dose of 600 mg., twice a day, in the morning and in the evening is sufficient.

Magnesium

Magnesium and calcium are partners in keeping the nervous system strong and healthy. Most abused substances contribute to diminished magnesium in the blood. A recommended dose is 600mg. taken twice a day with calcium.

DL-Phenylalanine

Composed of two amino acids, DLPA is especially useful in reducing cravings and helping clear up the depression, pain, and the nervous system. Recommended dose is 750 mg. twice daily.

Glutamine

Improves intelligence and helps control hypoglycemia and the craving for alcohol and sweets. Suggested dose is 1000 mg. twice a day.

Ginkgo

Improves cellular glucose uptake, scavenge free radicals, improves short-term memory, and enhances energy.

Peppermint

Improves digestion and promotes liver function and ulcer healing.

Chamomile

Helps rebuild the liver, relax the nervous system and calm the stomach.